The way people see a visit to the dentist has changed significantly in recent years with clients actively choosing some treatments, instead of visiting us only as a necessity and then somewhat reluctantly.

Among the desired treatments of tooth straightening, dental implants and others, tooth whitening continues to be extremely popular.

The UK has an aging but increasingly healthy population with a desire to grow older more beautifully. Around 50% of people over 85 still have some of their natural teeth which is a big difference from previous generations. Tooth whitening can be an effective way to remove stains from teeth, brighten their appearance and make clients look younger

At the other end of the age scale, the younger generation is used to seeing celebrities and other people in the public eye with sparkling smiles and they want to have the same.

There are many tooth whitening options available from a variety of sources and this is a good opportunity to emphasise that it is illegal for beauticians and hair salons to offer tooth whitening unless they have a dentist prescribing and overseeing the treatment on their premises. Having whitening carried out by someone without the correct knowledge and training can permanently damage teeth and gums.

Tooth whitening at Illume offers excellent value for money, is a great way to refresh your smile and can be an enormous confidence booster.

Find out what existing clients say about tooth whitening here, or call us on 01242 522230 for a consultation to take the first step to a whiter and brighter smile. 

If you saw The Guardian yesterday morning you may well have taken note of a thought provoking report, which assessed the true value of quick fixes and detox diets like Dry January. Though primarily focused on weight loss, the report stressed a noteworthy point in that campaigns, like Dry January, may make us feel better during the 31 one days we abstain from alcohol, but for the long term may actually do more harm than good. 

Here at Illume we couldn’t agree more, particularly when it comes to fine tuning drinking habits. Although in full support of the meaning behind Dry January and its aim to quell alcohol indulgence, it serves little purpose if come February 1^st all participants drink to excess to make up for those ‘lost weekends’. 

Aside from smoking, drinking alcohol is the second largest risk factor for mouth cancer. In fact, a recent Cancer Research Study found that around a third of cancers of the mouth and throat were caused by drinking alcohol – which increases dramatically for those that smoke at the same time.

In addition to its cancer causing qualities, alcohol can affect both your teeth and overall oral health. Aside from the fact some alcoholic drinks can be full of sugar, particularly if you opt for a spirit and mixer like Vodka and Cranberry Juice, alcohol is extremely acidic, which can cause long lasting damage to your teeth.

Practice Owner and Clinical Director, Tim Rumney, explains: “When consuming drinks that are extremely acidic, such as the nation’s new favourite, prosecco (sorry ladies), the enamel on the surface of our teeth starts to soften and dissolve. As a result the tooth underneath becomes prone to pain, sensitivity and decay.”

“With that in mind I encourage everyone who has participated in Dry January 2016 to think about how changing your drinking habits for the long term could really improve your oral health as well as your overall well-being.

Here at Illume the benefits of our membership last all year round. For more information or to book an appointment please contact the practice directly on 01242 522230.

Last month Illume’s Non-Clinical Director, Alison Rumney, discussed the well-researched link between a great looking smile and improved confidence and self-esteem. 

However, how many of us are aware that our teeth also have a part to play in career development? Where a healthy smile improves our confidence, it can also aid our ability to perform and relate to others in the work place.

Alison explains, “We often feel less confident in a new or potentially challenging situation. When we apply for a new job or promotion, we prepare for the interview that we hope will follow – we plan what we’ll say and think about what we may be asked. We also think about what we’ll wear and consider getting a haircut in order to sharpen our appearance. 

“We should also think about our smile – no-one wants to be the interviewee who speaks from behind a hand because they are embarrassed about a smile they would like to hide from others.”

Improving your smile could be one of the best investments you make for career success. Healthy, white and sparkling teeth will not only help you feel great and smile more, but will also increase the likelihood of others wanting to engage with you – perceiving you as a positive member of the team with a ‘can-do’ attitude. 

Then, when the time comes for you to apply for a new position or negotiate a promotion, you will have both the confidence and self-belief that you will achieve – all from healthy teeth! 

Alison continues, “New Year is a notorious time for making a change, particularly when it comes to career choices. Improving your confidence through a great looking smile will support your success in all stages of getting a new job – from interview preparation, to meeting your new colleagues. 

“Getting offered a new job is a real confidence boost – so just imagine how great you will feel when you have the sparkly smile to match!”

Here at Illume our team of highly qualified dental professionals provide a number of treatments guaranteed to make you smile at any stage in life. From subtle tooth straightening and tooth whitening, to hygienist support for improved oral health.  

If you want to take pride in your smile, please contact the practice today on 01242 522230.